3. Bergen, a Gateway to the Fjords of Western Norway
Bergen is known as “the capital of the fjords” because it is perfectly situated between the two biggest fjords in Norway, the Hardangerfjord and the Sognefjord, making the city an ideal starting point or gateway for stunning fjord excursions and magnificent hikes in Western Norway. It is Norway's second largest city and is protected from the North Sea by islands to the west. It is segment number 3 as seen on the map below of Bubbly Tourist's perfect 7 - 10 Day Norway itinerary.
Bubbly Tip: It rains a lot in Norway, especially Bergen with more than 200 rainy days per year, so bring proper rain gear including coats, shoes/boots and umbrellas. And bring layers because you'll need to be able to layer up or strip down depending on the hour of the day. Don't feel like packing everything? Well there's plenty of fashionable stores throughout the country that set the standard with cool and stylish raincoats.
What to See and Do in Bergen
Start your visit at Bergen Harbor, where most of Bergen's attractions are situated. Central Bergen (Sentrum) is quite compact, so our list of recommended activities is not extensive, which also clarifies why Bergen is not a standalone destination.
Bubbly Tip Exercise caution when walking along Hollendergaten, a street located one block closer to the city center from the Fish Market. We observed several drug addicts consuming drugs and being removed by the local authorities. Our findings were corroborated by friends who had witnessed similar incidents during a previous visit months ago.
Bryggen
This colorful small section of Bergen on the harbor is made up of old multicolored wooden houses, and it's on the UNESCO list for World Cultural Heritage sights. It is the old wharf of Bergen and is a reminder of the town's importance as part of the Hanseatic League's trading empire from the 14th to the mid-16th century. It was built in its current form after a major fire in 1702, but has existed since the 12th century. There are a couple of museums where you can learn about its cultural heritage, stores, restaurants and bars here.
Bergenhus Fortress
Bergenhus Fortress is one of Norway’s oldest and best preserved fortifications. The Fortress has a long history as a royal seat, episcopal seat and military seat of power. Admission to the fortress area is free. Museums, concerts, events, festivals, etc. may require tickets with different prices.
Bergen Fish Market
At the Fish Market (Fisketorget), you can find fresh fish and seafood, local farm products like fruit, berries and vegetables, as well as game like reindeer sausage. There are also several restaurants serving a large selection of seafood. The indoor Fish Market is next to the open market and is open all year while the outdoor Fish Market is only open from the 1st of May and during the summer months. Like most things Norwegian, it is expensive so be prepared.
See Bergen from Above
Only if the weather is cooperative should you plan a trip up the mountains in town. It rained for us so sadly Bubbly Tourist didn't venture upwards. However, given a sunny day there are two options: Mount Floyen by Funicular or Mount Ulriken by Cable Car. Both allow for opportunities to hike up or more likely once you've reached the top. Mount Floyen is close to city center whereas Mount Ulriken requires a bus, light rail or car ride to get to it.
Head Inside for some Champagne and/or a Nice Meal
Right downtown are some nice restaurants where you can escape the rain and get a good meal. Look no further than Villani Skostredet, a cozy and warm Italian restaurant with delicious food at a reasonable price, a nice wine selection (including Champagne) and seating both indoors and out. It's conveniently located three minutes by foot from the Fish Market. If you're looking for a chic place to have a cocktail or some champagne, then another option for you is the Bare restaurant inside the Børs Hotel. Enjoy the frescoes and architecture inside this large open hall while watching the world off the harbor walk on by.
How long should you stay in Bergen?
Central Bergen (Sentrum) is relatively small and between its size and the frequency of rain, you'll get your city sights done in under a day, and you'll need a maximum of one night. Bubbly Tourist does not recommend more than a day. As a gateway to Western Norway, use your time more wisely to springboard from Bergen to the awesome nearby fjords.
Bergen Transportation
Bergen Central Train Station
If you're following Bubbly Tourist's perfect 7 - 10 day itinerary of Norway, you've arrived in Bergen via the Norway in a Nutshell® route which starts in Oslo by train and takes you through the majestic UNESCO listed Nærøyfjord from Flåm by boat and again by train to Bergen. The train will arrive at Bergen Central Station which is a 10 minute walk to the harbor. The Central Station also serves a light rail that can take you to various locations throughout Bergen including the airport.
Bergen Airport (BGO), Flesland
Bergen Flesland Airport (BGO) is an international airport located about 10 miles (or 17 km) from Bergen center (Sentrum). It takes only 20 minutes by car or 45 minutes by light rail. Many airlines service Norway's second largest airport such as Air Baltic, Air France, Edelweiss Air, Finnair, Icelandair, Jet2, KLM, Loganair, Lufthansa, Norwegian Air, Norwegian Air Intl, SAS, Wideroe, and Wizz Air.
Bubbly Tip: Avoid taking taxis in Norway if possible. They are unregulated and therefore very expensive unless you negotiate a price with the driver before taking the ride. Bubbly Tourist made the mistake of not pre-negotiating the fare and it cost an equivalent $75 from Bergen's center to the airport to pick up our rental car.
Bergen Port
The Port of Bergen is located in central Bergen. If you are arriving on a cruise, you'll be roughly a 10 minute walk from Bryggen Wharf. Like most ports, Bergen port is an unattractive area but center town is quickly accessible by foot.
What's Next on the Itinerary after Bergen
Southwest Norway
There are some absolutely magnificent hikes in Western Norway south of Bergen. These jawdropping destinations have views that are in some cases not for the faint of heart. The Hardangerfjord, located in the Hardanger region south of Bergen, is the fifth longest fjord in the world, and the second longest fjord in Norway. The fjord stretches 111 miles (179 km) from the Atlantic Ocean into the mountainous interior of Norway along the Hardangervidda plateau.
Bubbly Tourist Bon Voyage!